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Self Help Advice
Colds:
Even in this day and age there is still no magic cure for the
common cold. Go to bed and take plenty of drinks. If you have a
headache or are feverish, take Aspirin or Paracetamol.
Fever:
Often accompanies viral infections and usually harmless. Ensure
you drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration: do not
overdress even if you feel cold, and take Paracetamol to reduce
temperature. In children if the temperature is above 38 degrees,
use Paracetamol elixir or Ibuprofen suspension and tepid sponge
the forehead, neck and upper arms with a moist sponge or
flannel. This will help to reduce the temperature by evaporation
and make the child feel fresher.
Diarrhoea:
Treat by drinking plenty of clear fluids. In babies or very
young children treat with oral rehydration fluids obtainable
from the chemist. If the child refuses to drink or vomits, or if
the diarrhoea persists for more than 24 hours, consult your
doctor.
Nose Bleeds:
Sit upright, lean forward and pinch nostrils together firmly.
Release every 5 minutes to see if bleeding has stopped. If
bleeding continues after 30 minutes, consult your doctor.
Minor Cuts & Grazes:
Wash the wound thoroughly with water and a little soap. To stop
bleeding apply a clean handkerchief or dressing firmly to the
wound for about 5 minutes. Cover with a clean dry dressing.
Sunburn:
This should be prevented by avoiding over exposure, by wearing
light protective clothing and sunhats, and by using sun block
creams. If it does occur - and remember that children are
particularly susceptible - use dabbed- on Calamine lotion.
Insect Bites & Stings
Antihistamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without
prescription and will usually relieve most symptoms.
Note: Bee stings should be scraped away rather than "plucked" in
order to avoid squeezing the contents of the venom sac into the
wound.
Travel Advice:
Plan your immunisations well in advance. Speak to the practice
nurse. Avoid unbottled water and salads in hot counties. (A
lettuce leaf or tomato can be covered with millions of germs!)
Avoid over exposure to the sun.
Avoid exposure to insects, especially at dawn and dusk in
malarial areas. Try covering up and using insect repellents.
Remember malarial resistance is becoming a problem in many
countries. Practice safe sex and avoid contact with at risk
groups.
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